The Apostle Paul uses powerful metaphors to illustrate how we live in God’s kingdom.
These metaphors are:
– Athlete (1 Cor. 9:24-27)
– Farmer (2 Tim. 2:6; 1 Cor. 3:6-9)
– Soldier (2 Tim. 2:3-4)
The athlete highlights our need for discipline, training, and self-control.
The farmer reflects the importance of hard work and patient trust.
And the soldier reminds us we’re in a battle, requiring endurance, focus and loyalty to our commanding officer–the Lord Jesus Christ.
Together, these metaphors reveal that diligence, perseverance and keeping the goal in sight are central to living faithfully.
Facing challenges and staying the course are not exceptions—they’re the norm.
Accepting this reality is half the battle.